NEW YORK PREPARES FOR GAY MARRIAGE DELUGE

The city of New York has instituted a lottery system in all of its five boroughs in order to deal with an expected flood of same-sex couples vying to get married this weekend.

New York’s historic marriage equality law, legalising same-sex marriage in the state, takes effect this coming Sunday after it was passed late last month.

The Office of the City Clerk said that while it’s offices will be open for a full day of business it is anticipating it to be “the busiest day” in its history.

“Accordingly, a lottery system will be implemented to provide a set number of spots that guarantee couples the opportunity to complete their application for a marriage license, and have a wedding ceremony, in the Borough they request,” said the office in a statement.

There will be 400 slots available for the Manhattan City Clerk’s Office; 112 slots available each for the Brooklyn and Queens City Clerk’s Offices; 98 slots available for The Bronx City Clerk’s Office; and 42 slots available for the Staten Island City Clerk’s Office.

Winning couples will be selected randomly and notified by e-mail and/or phone no later than noon on Friday. Each couple is permitted one entry into the lottery.